New York City Mayor Eric Adams today stood up for New York City small businesses by backing a newly introduced bill by New York City Councilmembers Keith Powers and Justin Brannan.
The bill that would suspend the city’s liquor license surcharge and put money back into the pockets of small business owners:
“The COVID-19 pandemic hit our small businesses hard and had an especially big impact on bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues,” said Mayor Adams. “Suspending the local tax these businesses currently pay on liquor licenses is a simple, common-sense way to put money back into their pockets and help keep their doors open. This was a key component of my economic blueprint in March, and I am proud to support this legislation sponsored by Councilmembers Powers and Brannan. Under my administration, city government will not be an obstacle for our small business community but an ally that helps small business owners thrive.”
“Small businesses propel economic activity across the five boroughs, and this administration is committed to giving them the support they need to succeed and create jobs for New Yorkers,” said Deputy Mayor for Economic and Workforce Development Maria Torres-Springer. “This legislation will provide welcome financial relief to many of the businesses that were most impacted by the pandemic. It will help support our nightlife industry — a critical engine of our tourism economy — and deliver on a commitment from our ‘Rebuild, Renew, Reinvent’ blueprint for the city’s economic recovery.”
“It’s time to tap into common-sense proposals to help New York City’s small businesses,” said Councilmember Powers. “I’m excited to join Mayor Adams today to raise a glass to our city’s nightlife by putting money back into their pockets. Cheers to boosting the spirits of our bars and restaurants — it’s worth the shot!”
“New York City’s restaurants, bars, grocery stores, and bodegas are the lifeblood of our neighborhoods,” said Councilmember Brannan. “These small business owners have been through the wringer over the past few years, and they need our support. Owning and operating a small business during normal times is no easy feat. Taking the health, safety, and well-being of your customers and employees seriously, while doing everything you can to make sure your business survives a global pandemic, basically calls for a miracle. Everyone loves to say ‘small businesses are the backbone of our local economy,’ but talk is cheap. By suspending this tax, we can help lighten their load just a little bit as we explore additional avenues to ensure our small businesses can thrive beyond the pandemic. I’m happy to get this done in partnership with Mayor Adams.”
Click here to read more about small business owners in Harlem.
Become a Harlem Insider!
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: . You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact
